New Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Red Dot

Vortex Optics has introduced their new Razor AMG UH-1 red dot optic for the 2017 SHOT Show. We were able to take an early peek at this new optic. The Razor AMG UH-1 is offering the new “quantum well technology” that Vortex believes could revolutionize the holographic optic market. In essence, Vortex has moved all of the complex electronics necessary for the holographic reticle to the integrated base of the Razor AMG UH-1.

According to Vortex staff, by moving the electronics into the base of the optic, they can provide superior protection from the elements and recoil. This allows Vortex to forego an extra hood over the top of the optic to provide that extra protection. We were able to put some rounds down range, using the Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 mounted to a nice AR-15. At 25-yards I had little trouble hitting and moving the hostage-taker popper on a steel target.

The Razor AMG UH-1 is larger than some options, but has great features (photo from Vortex).

Vortex Razor AMG UH-1

The Razor® AMG™ UH-1™ is a rugged red dot optic designed for harshest conditions. Using Armor-Tek exterior coatings, the optic lenses are relatively scratch resistant, and the interior is Argon gas purged for clarity and condensation prevention. Vortex uses FHQ™ Technology to block light from escaping the AMG UH-1, and preventing eyepiece glare for the best outcome in low-light conditions.

A very nice feature of the AMG UH-1 is the large sight picture. There has been a lot of movement towards mini or micro red dots lately, and they have their place, but as compact and lightweight as they are their targeting lenses are very small. The AMG UH-1 gives the shooter a very nice rectangular sight picture that provides the shooter plenty of observation surrounding a target. Vortex claims this larger sight picture assists with target acquisition, and follow-up shots. From my limited experience I would have to agree. It does come at the price of a larger optic, however.

Staying on target was easy with the AMG UH-1 (note ejected brass).

The large windows on the AMG UH-1 are shatterproof XR plus. Both front and rear windows are fully multi-coated to block unnecessary light, while providing a very clear image of the reticle and the target. The holographic elements are designed to give optimal light transmission, and we observed very good lighting during daylight conditions.

The AMG UH-1 is designed for absolute zero distortion during single shot or rapid fire situations. Though firing only a semi-auto AR-15 while testing the AMG UH-1, I observed absolutely no distortion or movement of the reticle. This feature is combined with Vortex’s innovative Fusion Hologram.

Here the reticle is on a mid-level setting.

The holographic reticle has a (1) MOA center dot, surrounded by a larger circle with openings at the 10:00, 2:00 and 6:00 positions. There are hash marks at the 9:00, 12:00, and 3:00 positions for additional sighting reference, and finally a small triangle in the 6:00 opening that is specifically designed to be a CQB target reference to account for bore-to-sight off-set at ranges 7 yards and in. The Razor AMG UH-1 is designed to have a lower 1/3 co-witness with standard iron sights.

A closer look at the Razor AMG UH-1 reticle (photo from Vortex).

Vortex selected the popular CR-123A battery to run the AMG UH-1, with the option of using LFP-123A rechargeable batteries. The standard CR-123A battery provides up to 1500 hours of operation on the mid-level settings, while the rechargeable LFP-123A battery will only hold out for 600 hours. The battery compartment can be easily accessed on the left side of the optic.

The mini USB port on the back, right side charges rechargeable batteries.

Razor AMG UH-1 Features

Fully multi-coated lenses

Argon gas purged

FHQ™ Technology

(1) MOA center dot

NV compatible

Parallax free with unlimited eye relief

Shock-proof and 80-foot waterproof

Armor-Tek exterior coating

Rear facing controls

QD-attachement on integrated mount

Micro USB recharging port

Easy side battery compartment access

Auto shut-off after 14-hours.

The Razor AMG UH-1 sighted easily.

Razor AMG UH-1 Specifications

Height: Not listed (approx. 2.25 – 2.5 inches)

Length: 3.5 inches

Weight: 11.8 ounces

Center Dot: (1) MOA

Levels of Illumination: 15

Levels of Adjustment: 0.5 MOA per click

100 MOA adjustment

MSRP: $700.00.

The Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 is designed for harsh use (photo by Vortex).

Final Thoughts

The Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 red dot optic was fun and accurate to shoot. Though larger than many popular micro dots on the market today, the UH-1 is packed with great features. I had no problems sighting targets through the UH-1, and I was able to bounce the hostage taker plate back and forth with very little trouble while standing free-hand at 25 yards.

Vortex Optics has really been a fun company to watch grow. They provide outstanding materials and engineering to optics that rival some of the best in the world. In just a few short years their name has become common place in the market of high-end glass. This is a red dot to consider.

Aaron is a sergeant with a midwestern police department, where he serves as a trainer, supervisor and SWAT sniper. In addition to his broad tactical knowledge, Aaron has experience in DUI, DRE and undercover narcotics investigations.